Leahy chastises those linking Boston, immigration

WASHINGTON (AP) — The chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee is criticizing attempts by some to link the Boston Marathon bombings to legislation to overhaul the U.S. immigration system.

Democratic Sen. Patrick Leahy of Vermont says no one should "be so cruel as to try to use the heinous acts of two young men last week to derail the dreams and futures of millions."

He says the immigration legislation, which was getting its second hearing Monday, would strengthen national security by focusing on border security and enforcement.

The Judiciary Committee's top Republican, Chuck Grassley of Iowa, was among those who've said the Boston bombings raise questions about the immigration bill. The attack was allegedly carried out by two immigrant brothers.

However the brothers were here legally and one was a naturalized U.S. citizen.